Radiologic Technologists and Technicians
Radiologic technologists and technicians operate imaging equipment such as X-ray and CT scan machines to create diagnostic images of patients' internal structures. They may also administer nonradioactive materials into patients' bloodstreams to enhance imaging. These workers are employed in hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, physician offices, and outpatient facilities.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against radiologic technologists and technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves positioning patients for imaging procedures, operating radiographic equipment, and adjusting settings based on patient anatomy and physician orders. Technologists maintain equipment, follow safety protocols to minimize radiation exposure, and keep detailed records of procedures performed. Work may include early morning, evening, or weekend shifts to accommodate hospital operations and patient schedules.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you prefer hands-on tasks with clear procedures and reliable systems—the realistic approach. You also value following established protocols and maintaining organized workflows, which aligns with conventional interests. Attention to detail and steady technical skills matter more than abstract problem-solving.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist · Indian Health Service · Browning, Montana · $71709–$93227
- Therapeutic Radiologic Technologist · Veterans Health Administration · Richmond, Virginia · $69228–$110090
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist · Veterans Health Administration · West Haven, Connecticut · $88945–$115625
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Mammography) · Veterans Health Administration · Hampton, Virginia · $78985–$102686
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI) · Veterans Health Administration · Seattle, Washington · $93564–$121640
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (CT or MRI) Recruitment/Relocation Incentive and EDRP Authorized · Veterans Health Administration · Fort Worth, Texas · $79955–$103948
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist · Veterans Health Administration · Battle Creek, Michigan · $72890–$94762
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist · Bureau of Prisons/Federal Prison System · Bastrop, Texas · $54466–$74361
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $95,730 | $121,260 | $137,770 | 20,900 |
| Massachusetts | $83,200 | $103,620 | $122,900 | 5,500 |
| District of Columbia | $82,160 | $102,770 | $111,390 | 660 |
| Oregon | $85,280 | $102,290 | $111,810 | 2,700 |
| Washington | $81,880 | $102,090 | $121,560 | 4,130 |
| Hawaii | $85,480 | $101,700 | $107,080 | 690 |
| Alaska | $81,660 | $98,920 | $106,170 | 370 |
| New York | $82,670 | $98,470 | $110,950 | 13,450 |
| New Jersey | $80,600 | $95,000 | $103,510 | 6,320 |
| Vermont | $78,020 | $94,540 | $102,080 | 470 |
| Connecticut | $79,860 | $91,970 | $103,720 | 3,230 |
| Arizona | $74,960 | $89,200 | $106,920 | 4,670 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Limited Licensed Radiologic Technologist (CLLRT) — American Allied Health
- Registered Technologist - Sonography (RTS) — American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
- Registered Technologist - Radiography (RTR) — American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
- Registered Technologist - Magnetic Resonance Imaging (RTMR) — American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
- Certified EKG Technician (CET) — National Healthcareer Association
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist — American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against radiologic technologists and technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-2034.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.